Tag: Goa lifestyle

Business

IKEA Enters Goa Through Online Deliveries

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Business Desk

IKEA, the Swedish home furnishings retailer, announces its entry into Goa through online deliveries starting December 16. Customers can shop from a range of over 6,400 products via the IKEA app, the IKEA.in website, and shop-by-phone assistance. With over 30 per cent of its sales coming from online channels, Goa represents an important step in deepening IKEA India’s digital footprint.

There are already nearly 10,000 IKEA Family members in Goa, and with this launch, the company expects a further boost in sales from the state. The expansion is driven by strong search interest and sustained demand, particularly from Goa’s food, hospitality, and BnB segments. Customers receive their orders within 3 to 7 days, supported by planning, assembly, and installation services, long-term warranties ranging from 5 to 25 years across various furniture categories, and a 365-day return policy.

Commenting on the launch, Bhavana Jaiswal, Country E-commerce Integration Manager at IKEA India, says that life at home in Goa is rooted in community, food, celebration, and a love for easy living. She notes a clear rise in demand over the past year through app downloads, social media enquiries, and B2B interest from cafes, hostels, restaurants, and BnB owners. She adds that IKEA aims to become part of how Goans live, gather, and create memories, offering everything from outdoor furniture and hosting essentials to smart storage and festive collections.

Nationally, IKEA welcomes over 300 million visitors across channels and has a strong base of 2.7 million IKEA Family members. As the brand continues to grow its presence in India, it remains focused on creating a better everyday life for the many, now extending that promise to the vibrant and warm homes of Goa.

Human Interest

Jonty Rhodes Compares Delhi’s Toxic Air to Goa’s Clean Breeze: “Hardto Digest”

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

South African cricketing legend Jonty Rhodes has raised alarm over Delhi’s worsening air pollution, calling it “hard to digest” and comparing it with the clean, refreshing air of Goa. Passing through Delhi en route via Ranchi, Rhodes took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his gratitude for living in a small fishing village in South Goa, far from the choking smog engulfing the national capital.

Rhodes’ post came as Delhi recorded its worst air quality levels of the year, with thick smog blanketing the city and pollution levels reaching “severe” on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Using the hashtags #AQI and #whats2Bdone, the former South African cricketer drew attention to the growing environmental crisis and urged awareness about India’s air quality challenges.

Alongside his message, Rhodes shared a photo of his children playing football on a Goan beach — a moment of joy that highlighted the contrast between Goa’s open, breathable environment and Delhi’s hazardous conditions. “If this was in Delhi, they’d probably be playing indoors,” he suggested, pointing to the alarming difference in lifestyle caused by pollution.

Known for his association with India through the Indian Premier League and his enduring connection with Goa, Rhodes’ remarks resonated with many online users who echoed his concerns about Delhi’s air and the urgent need for long-term solutions.

As the national capital continues to battle smog and health advisories warn residents to limit outdoor activities, Rhodes’ post serves as both a reminder and a wake-up call — urging reflection on the state of urban air quality and the importance of protecting cleaner, greener spaces like Goa.

Goan Personalities

Goa CM Pramod Sawant and Wife Sulakshana Share Heartfelt Birthday Wishes for Daughter Parthivi

allycaralgoa

Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant celebrated a very special occasion as he penned a touching birthday message for his daughter Parthivi. Expressing his joy as a father, he wrote:.

“My dear @parthivi__17, on your special day, I feel so grateful and happy to see the wonderful person you are becoming. Watching you grow brings me great joy, and being your father is truly a blessing. May you always find happiness in life’s moments and strength in its challenges. Wishing you a very happy birthday filled with love, laughter, and everything that makes you smile.”

Joining him, his wife Sulakshana Sawant also shared a heartfelt video tribute with an emotional note to their daughter:

“Happy Birthday, to my precious Parthivi. You are not only my child, you are my greatest pride and my life’s purpose. From the moment I first held you, I knew you were destined for greatness. Never forget that you carry within you the strength of a woman who can face any storm, the kindness that can heal hearts, and the courage to build the life of your dreams. As your mother, I will always stand behind you, beside you, and within you, no matter how far you go. Shine boldly—the world is waiting for your light.”

The messages reflect the deep bond and pride the Sawant family shares, blending love, values, and inspiration. As Parthivi celebrates her birthday, she carries with her the blessings and unwavering support of her parents.

Business

Goa Gears Up for Shopping Centres Next 2025 as India’s New Retail Hotspot

allycaralgoa

Panaji, July 2025 – Once celebrated primarily for its beaches and laid-back vibe, Goa is rapidly transforming into India’s newest retail and lifestyle powerhouse. The upcoming Shopping Centres Next (SCN) 2025 convention, taking place on July 23–24 at Grand Hyatt Goa, is the clearest sign yet that the sunshine state is ready for the big leagues in retail real estate.

Organised by the Shopping Centres Association of India, SCN 2025 will bring together the country’s top mall developers, retail brands, F&B chains, architects, urban planners, and government stakeholders to discuss the future of India’s retail landscape—with Goa taking centre stage.

📊 Why Goa, Why Now?

The numbers speak volumes.
In 2024 alone, over 1 crore tourists visited Goa, contributing nearly ₹4,615 crore to the local economy between April and December. Add to that a 25% higher-than-average per capita consumption by locals, and Goa’s retail readiness becomes impossible to ignore.

🏙️ Retail Projects Changing the Game

  • DLF Promenade, Panaji – a high-end mall featuring 300+ brands, a six-screen multiplex, and luxury retail zones.
  • Unity Mall, Mall de Goa, and Caculo Mall – already popular with both residents and visitors.
  • Local icons like Mapusa Market and 18th June Road continue to blend heritage charm with new-age shopping.

Boutique labels such as Poshak and Neo, local F&B champions like Magsons, Delfino’s Hymart, and lifestyle spots like Crèmeux, Mr. Baker, and Ministry of Beer are also drawing consistent footfall.

🎯 A Year-Round Lifestyle Destination

Gone are the days when Goa’s retail economy was seasonal. Thanks to growing urbanisation, smart city developments, rising incomes, and increasing return tourist traffic, Goa is now a full-year shopping and lifestyle hub. Entertainment spaces, boutique cinemas, museums, spas, and salons add layers of appeal beyond traditional retail.

💬 What to Expect at SCN 2025

  • Future of retail-led urban development
  • Innovations in mall design and customer experience
  • Role of tourism in driving year-round footfall
  • Retail tech, sustainability, and community integration
  • Insights from top retail CXOs and real estate leaders

Goa’s retail boom is real, and it’s only just begun. From cosmopolitan malls to charming markets, from international labels to local gems — the state is crafting an identity that marries commerce with culture. As Shopping Centres Next 2025 gears up, all eyes are on Goa as India’s most exciting new retail frontier.